Koto making /
Fashioning the shamisen neck and body
Techniques of the makers and the human resources that has been handed down to the production of
"Koto" and "Shamisen" protect the important culture
Society for the Conservation
of Traditional Japanese Musical Instrument
Making Skills
Designated in 2021
1-30-7 Akatsukimachi, Hachioji City,
Tokyo Prefecture 113-0033
The koto and shamisen, two of Japan’s traditional musical instruments, are under threat from the aging of skilled instrument makers and shortage of successors to carry on the trades. We exist to preserve the important cultural heritage represented by these traditional craft skills handed down over the generations and nurture skilled instrument makers to keep these crafts alive.
Koto making
Fashioning the shamisen neck and body
